Substance Addiction

What is substance addiction?

Substance addiction, often called substance use disorder, happens when alcohol, drugs, or certain medications become hard to control despite their harmful effects.

Addiction isn’t a weakness or lack of willpower. It’s a treatable mental health condition that affects your: 

• Brain 
• Behavior 
• Emotions 
• Decision-making

What are the signs of substance addiction?

Signs of substance addiction include:

• Strong cravings
• Increased use
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Mood changes
• Secrecy
• Missed responsibilities
• Financial stress
• Relationship problems
• Risky behavior

Some people try to stop several times but return to use when stress, cravings, or withdrawal feel overwhelming.

Addiction can occur with anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia. 

Treating both substance use and mental health symptoms can support better recovery.

How is substance addiction diagnosed?

Collegial Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Inc. starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Your provider asks about:

• Substance use
• Cravings
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Mood
• Sleep
• Trauma history
• Medical concerns
• Medications
• Relationships
• Stressors
• Daily functioning

This evaluation helps your provider understand what you’re experiencing without judgment. It also helps identify any co-occurring mental health concerns that may affect treatment.

How is substance addiction treated?

Treatment may include:

• Medication management
• Psychotherapy
• Relapse prevention planning
• Coping skills
• Support for lifestyle changes

Psychotherapy can help you understand triggers, manage stress, rebuild confidence, and create healthier routines. The team takes a holistic approach, meaning care focuses on your mental and physical health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Do I need to undergo detox?

Detox involves eliminating alcohol or drugs from your body while managing withdrawal as safely as possible. Some withdrawal symptoms feel uncomfortable, like:

• Sweating
• Nausea
• Shaking
• Cravings
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems

Others can become serious, especially with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or heavy opioid use, so medical guidance is vital.

Depending on the substance involved, medication can reduce your cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and lower the risk of relapse. For opioid addiction, medications like buprenorphine support recovery when prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Detox is only the first step in recovery. Afterward, you’ll likely require ongoing medication management, psychotherapy, relapse prevention support, and care for co-occurring mental health conditions.

You don’t have to hit rock bottom before getting care. For expert ongoing support with a substance addiction, call Collegial Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Inc. or request an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.